Australia boasts an abundance of intriguing wildlife. Often, the challenge lies in knowing the right spots to observe them.
For travellers exploring the vast continent like Mariella and Dougal, who are always searching for wildlife, there’s ample opportunity to keep busy. As reported by statistics from the Australian federal Department of Environment, it is believed that there are approximately 566,000 different species.
living species in Australia
, with only approximately 147,000 that had been previously documented.
“Ever since we hit the road, our aim has been to capture photographs of each and every species we encounter,” Mariella stated to Yahoo News Australia.
We are fervent naturalists with great enthusiasm.
wildlife
photographers
, so capturing unique wildlife experiences always gives us a genuine excitement.”
It has been an exhilarating pursuit for them, as they join the increasing ranks of Australians who embrace a nomadic way of life.
“During the pandemic, we opted to purchase a
caravan
“And once we set out, we’ve never turned back,” she stated.
Although Mariella hails from Italy, she has resided in Australia for the last ten years and encountered Dougal in his hometown of Airlie Beach, which is located in Queensland.
She told Yahoo that they departed from Airlie Beach roughly four years back and have been constantly traveling since then. They reside permanently in their all-terrain caravan, an experience she finds incredible as it provides them with the liberty to frequently switch up their surroundings.
-
Roaming duo share the ‘toughest aspect’ of their journey lifestyle.
-
An Australian explorer’s appeal to all the daily grind workers nationwide
-
An Australian fellow who resides in a van discloses the lesser-known reality surrounding this lifestyle choice.
Currently, the pair is based in Katherine, located in the Northern Territory, prior to moving to Darwin where they will start their new jobs. Mariella holds a qualification as a teaching assistant, whereas Dougal works as a carpenter; however, he has recently secured a position as a nature guide.
Typically, we accept gigs that provide space for parking our van, or we link up with folks who let us use their land in return for some help. Occasionally, we crash at friends’ places. It’s an adaptable, communal way of life, and we’re completely smitten with it.
Moreover, it provides ample chances for some thrilling meetings.
Small octopus discovery unveils ‘secret realm’
An example of this occurred
on their social media
This week, as the pair encounters the surprisingly “remarkable” algae octopus, spotting this master of disguise proves more challenging than anticipated.
Mariella mentioned, “We are both underwater photographers who enjoy pursuing tiny marine life. While we have an equal passion for large species such as manta rays, it’s actually the mysterious realm of minuscule sea creatures that truly fascinates us.”
While taking a stroll along the reef close to a secluded area known as Portland Roads, roughly 15 minutes away from Lockhart River in Queensland, the duo spotted an elusive night-active octopus beneath some driftwood.
Mariella mentioned how captivating and smart these creatures are, adding that it was a delight to see one during daylight hours as they usually come out at night.
The algae octopus (Abdopus aculeatus) excels at camouflaging itself remarkably well, frequently imitating seaweed or debris on the ocean floor. This particular species stands out as one of the rare kinds of octopuses observed walking on just two limbs—almost as though it’s delicately tip-toeing along the sea bottom.
Their conduct and flexibility continue to astonish us.
Adore Australia’s bizarre yet amazing landscape? 🐊🦘😲 Check out our
new newsletter
highlighting the finest tales of the week.
The article initially appeared on Yahoo News Australia.
https://au.news.yahoo.com/travelling-caravan-couple-catch-glimpse-of-rarely-seen-creature-in-shallows-fascinating-212128720.html
